Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Gorizia’

Named after the Italian Town where it was discovered, ‘Gorizia’ is a unique and beautiful Rosemary. It has an upright habit, has lovely large flat slender leaves and large blue-lavender flowers that bloom in the Spring. Rosemaries are in the mint family; Lamiaceae along with many other aromatic and culinary herbs such as basil, mint, sage, savory, marjoram, oregano, hyssop, and thyme. The family Lamiaceae contains 236 genera and over 7,000 species of plants!

Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Gorizia’ is a herbaceous perennial evergreen shrub that prefers full sun, dry to average well-drained soil, and will grow to a large bush size of 4-6 feet tall and wide. Its flowers attract bees and butterflies, and deer generally avoid it. Trimming it back periodically will help it to maintain a lush appearance. The fragrant oil contained in the leaves will prevent some pests, and is also said to be medicinal. Rosemary is said to have anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, antiseptic, and antibacterial properties. It is also a culinary herb to be dried and crushed or simply used fresh in many meat, bread and vegetable dishes. It can also provide ornamentation to your garden in addition to the above uses, and will tolerate drought conditions well. Named after the latin: ros for ‘dew’, and marinus for ‘sea’, translating to sea dew, as it grows well in coastal regions, getting much of its moisture from damp air.

As you may imagine, there are many myths and legends about Rosemary, the most common coming from Ophelia’s reference to it in Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’ as ‘for remembrance’. It has been traditionally used at weddings. There is a story that the Virgin Mary laid her blue robe onto a white flowering rosemary plant to sit down and rest, and that is how the flowers became lavender. You will love this unique and beautiful rosemary! We are currently growing Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Gorizia’ in 1 gallon containers, they are in full bloom and are looking spectacular! Give us a call, ‘Like’ us on Facebook, or check out our website at www.clearwatercolor.com to learn more about this and other plants we are currently selling.